The Constanta port in Romania has become a key transit for Ukrainian grain exports, handling 8.1 million tons between January and July. This significant throughput took place against the backdrop of increased Russian hostilities in the region.

In the period between January and July, 8.1 million tons of Ukrainian grain were transported through Romania's Constanta Black Sea port, according to data shared by the Constanta Port Authority with Reuters. However, the rate of shipments experienced a decline in July, coinciding with Russia's onset of assaults on inland port infrastructures in Ukraine.

Following Russia's decision to abandon a United Nations and Turkey-mediated grain corridor agreement in mid-July, Ukraine lost access to its own Black Sea ports. This has rendered the Danube river as Ukraine's sole waterborne export route for grain. Subsequent to this move, Russian forces have continually targeted ports along the Danube.

For context, Constanta Port recorded the shipment of 7.5 million tons of Ukrainian grain by the end of June, showcasing a notable increase in the subsequent month. The port, traditionally a hub for Romania's agricultural exports and those of landlocked neighbors like Hungary and Serbia, saw a total grain throughput of 18.9 million tons during the first seven months of the year. Ukrainian grain, as a result, faces competition for space at this crucial port.